We can’t stop wildfires — but we can be prepared for them

Matt Dias is the President and CEO of the California Forestry Association

Wildfire season in California used to follow a predictable schedule. Not anymore. Today, it’s a year-round threat, with lives, homes and entire communities at stake. The scope, speed and severity of wildfires are increasing — and so too must our resolve to stay ahead of them.

The State of California has long recognized this reality, investing steadily in fire prevention and response through CAL FIRE and other agencies. Strong state-level commitments have led the way — and, now, we’re finally seeing encouraging signs of alignment at the federal level.

Fortunately, the 2025 fire season has already brought progress. Last month, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum issued a joint memorandum directing wildfire leadership to take swift, decisive and coordinated action. It’s among the most forward-leaning wildfire directives in recent years and a vital step in ensuring frontline responders have the resources and support they need.

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